After years of reporting on different trends as fashion editors, we often end up eschewing said trends altogether when it comes to our own wardrobes. Whether this is a result of feeling overwhelmed with the pure volume of clothes out there or a direct reaction to seeing trends come and go so quickly, many of us have ended up with a more streamlined selection of investment pieces that we wear year after year.
Not only does this simplify things when getting dressed in the mornings, but it’s also a more sustainable approach to dressing. Of course, everyone has their own personal style and thoughts about what actually counts as an investment buy, but there are some key items we can all agree on. For autumn, this list includes buttery soft leather, premium knitwear, versatile shirts for layering and, of course, timeless outerwear.
So let us introduce you to AlphaTauri, a brand we turn to for premium quality, innovative materials and classic designs. Its autumn collection has just launched, and it focuses on the exact pieces that our cold-weather wardrobes revolve around. Excitingly, it’s also the first collection from the brand’s new head of design, Mi-Kyong Yeom, who’s joined AlphaTauri from Boss. (And the influence is clear in the sleek silhouettes and chic colour palette.)
These clothes don’t just look good, though. AlphaTauri merges fashion and function in the most elevated way, using cutting-edge textile engineering. We’re talking trench coats that regulate your temperature and water-repellent knits perfect for the unreliable British weather. We don’t often get the advantages of practical technology alongside such editorially-led design in the fashion world, so we’re here to take advantage of it while we can.
Keep scrolling to see our top five pieces from the new collection that all the Who What Wear editors agree are worth investing in. You’ll want to wear these clever staples season after season, and with the added value of durability, you can rest easy knowing that these pieces will last.
A timeless investment, the perfect pair of leather trousers is something every woman should have in her autumn arsenal. Opt for a straight-legged, slightly cropped version like these for added versatility. They can be dressed up with heels or dressed down with trainers. The buttery-soft leather will age beautifully, so you can pull these out year after year.
It’s been confirmed many autumn/winter seasons in a row now: Puffer coats are the linchpin of our cold-weather wardrobes, and they’re looking better than ever. Over the years, we’ve come to realise that a decent puffer not only has the right shape, fit and details, but it also needs to function well. This iteration is waterproof, super light and warm (thanks to the premium warmth-retaining PrimaLoft® insulation), and it features lots of handy little elements, like two internal straps that allow you to easily carry it as a backpack when the weather suddenly changes.
A great shirt is likely to be the most hard-working piece in your wardrobe. Layer it over thin knits and roll-necks, wear it open as a shacket on warmer days or buttoned up and tucked in under your favourite coat, blazer or jumper as the days get cooler.
A shearling coat is never a bad investment. This is a piece to cherish that will see you through many winters to come. Once a trend, aviator-style jackets have moved into the realm of classic outerwear and instantly elevate any look. Pair with light layers now and cosy knits later.
Knitted dresses have truly become an autumn wardrobe essential. They feel luxe and dressed up when paired with knee-high heeled leather boots, but you can wear them with chunky track-sole boots or trainers for a more casual and practical look. Either way, a knit dress is a piece you’ll wear endlessly. This AlphaTauri style might just be the most classic shape we’ve found yet.
